We saw the emergence of co-working spaces last year, so how does adding “free-range” to the equation change things? What is free-range cohabitation space and how does it impact office design trends?

The concept of the “cohabitation space” in the context of the workspace is nothing new. In the past, these spaces were occupied by multiple companies and where the cohabitation came in was the fact that they were under the same roof. However, within the next year, we’re going to be seeing the cohabitation space taken a step further, shifting into the “free-range cohabitation space,” which will take down the walls between these companies.

Changes that the free-range cohabitation space will bring

The free-range cohabitation space will maximize collaboration between companies, create an influx of creativity and new ideas, encourage flexibility and form a workspace that suits millennials. After all, millennials are a significant force in how the future workspace will be shaped and the direction that it will take.

Collaboration

A core feature of the free-range cohabitation space is collaboration. Now, what do we mean by collaboration? Whereas former cohabitation spaces encouraged collaboration between single business entities, the free-range cohabitation space will encourage collaboration between multiple companies. Down will go the walls and barriers separating the different companies and up will go a sense of teamwork, camaraderie and shared resources. This collaboration will encourage the sharing of not only ideas but the individuals themselves.

The role of design in the free-range cohabitation space

In order for this new, modern sense of cohabitation in the workplace to come to light, the design of the workspace also needs to experience change. Firstly, using an open space concept in the cohabitation space is vital, so that companies can quite literally communicate, share physical space and collaborate. Furthermore, there will be a shift in the furniture being incorporated in the workspace, such as lightweight, mobile furniture that can be moved between spaces, a lack of cubicles, portable dividers, coffee bars and an emphasis on comfort. Where there is comfort, individuals can collaborate freely throughout the workday and during breaks, as their ideas come to them.

The free-range cohabitation space will shift the tone of the workspace towards that of increased collaboration, idea-sharing, mobility, ease of communication and the future of the millennial company. For more information about the modern workspace and creating your own free-range cohabitation space, contact us at Antham Construction.